Taos Ski Valley appoints new CEO, board chairman
Taos Ski Valley announced a new chief executive this month, and that its longtime CEO, David Norden, would move to board chairman.
John Kelly, who has been with the ski resort since 2015, will take over as CEO. He most recently served as chief operating officer for Taos Ski Valley, overseeing mountain and base area operations, skier services and managing day-to-day operations, according to a news release.
Kelly’s predecessor, Norden, was CEO since 2016. The executive shakeup is part of a planned succession, the news release said.
“John has dedicated himself to this community, our staff, and the skiing industry, and I am extremely confident he is the right person to manage Taos Ski Valley’s long-term future,” Norden said in a statement.
The leadership changes come as Taos Ski Valley continues to expand, including the addition of a 7,300-foot gondola, replacements of ski lifts and new trails. The resort was recently ranked No. 5 in a list of best ski resorts compiled by SKI Magazine.
In a statement, Kelly called it “an honor to be appointed CEO of this storied resort and to lead it forward for a new generation of skiers and outdoor enthusiasts.”
“Since the resort was built 70 years ago by Ernie and Rhoda Blake, it’s become a global icon of big mountain skiing while still retaining its independence and authenticity,” Kelly said.